Gov. Greg Abbott calls for end to red light cameras in Texas

AUSTIN — Gov. Greg Abbott wants to hit the brake on red light cameras in Texas, announcing Monday he will call for lawmakers to ban cities from using the traffic devices next year.

Abbott contends red light cameras can make intersections less safe by causing more rear-end wrecks due to sharp braking. He adds that the cameras can pose a constitutional issue by “rendering accused violators guilty until proven innocent,” and by accusing drivers of violating the law without a witness.

Lawmakers have already called for a renewed effort to unplug red light camera enforcement in Texas, promising to push for a ban in the 2019 Legislative session. However, past efforts have struggled to gain momentum in the Legislature, failing to reach the governor’s desk.